A large-leaved lime tree on the insect meadow

25th September 2025

A large-leaved lime tree on the insect meadow

The Sustainability Action Days will take place again this year across Germany from 18 September to 8 October. The initiative was launched in 2012 on the occasion of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20). Its aim is to highlight exemplary commitment, raise awareness of sustainability and encourage people to take action.

On this occasion, we would like to draw attention today to the commitment of the Freiberg am Neckar local group of BUND. This nature conservation organisation, which we support with a corporate donation, is committed to climate protection and nature conservation in the region. Trees are indispensable allies in this process: they store CO₂ and pollutants, reduce noise, regulate the water balance, produce oxygen and create valuable habitats for mammals, birds and insects.

This year, the local group planted a large-leaved lime tree (Tilia platyphyllos) on the Canz family's insect meadow. On the former farmland, the family is working on an ambitious goal: to turn the area into a diverse biotope – a refuge for insects, birds, reptiles and numerous plant species.

The eight-year-old lime tree forms the centrepiece of this new habitat. It produces oxygen and, with each passing season, is growing into an important symbol of climate and nature conservation. In comparison, a 20-year-old lime tree produces around 10,000 litres of oxygen per year – enough to meet the needs of one person for ten days.

This planting campaign not only makes a valuable contribution to nature but also sends a strong message: sustainable action starts small – and has a big impact.  

Planting the tree on the insect meadow

BUND in action

Large-leaved lime tree planted